One of the original founders of The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Sylvester O’Halloran (1728 – 1807), was born in Co.Clare.
He studied surgery in Leyden, Paris and London. The influence of Parisian style and culture during his University days in Paris was apparent on his return to Limerick to practise. A contemporary described him as “The tall, thin Doctor in his quaint French dress, with his gold-headed cane, beautiful Parisian wig and cocked hat.”
O’Halloran did extensive research into the eye and ophthalmology, but in particular cataracts. He published a ‘Treatise on Cataracts’ which was presented to the Royal Society in 1752.
His talent also extended to General Surgery. In 1765 he published his book ‘New Method of Amputation’. The Appendix to this book, ‘Proposals for the Advancement of Surgery in Ireland’ led to the establishment of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
Apart from his love of surgery, O’Halloran had a deep interest in Irish History, Geography and Politics and published many books on the subjects.
He was also one of the chief founders of the County Limerick Infirmary.
